Farm, Renzi, Huachuca linked

[maddezmom]

Tucson, Arizona | Published: 04.29.2007
A 480-acre retired farm on the San Pedro River, the subject of an investigation that threatens the career of U.S. Rep. Rick Renzi, could also threaten the future of Fort Huachuca, officials say.

There are concerns that the farm — the critical property in two failed land swaps aimed at protecting the San Pedro — could now be put back into agricultural use, jeopardizing efforts to balance water use in the region, which in turn could force cutbacks or even closure of the fort.

One of those land swaps is the basis of an investigation of Renzi, a Northern Arizona Republican.

The second involves a partnership headed by former Gov. Bruce Babbitt, which acquired the land. Since the second swap fell through, the Babbitt group is concerned it may be forced to resume irrigating the land or risk losing its water rights.

more:http://www.azstarnet.com/sn/metro/180670.php